This Whiskey Pineapple Chicken is a fun twist on your regular dinner! Juicy chicken is cooked with sweet pineapple and a dash of whiskey, making it flavorful and yummy.
The sauce is thick and sticky, perfect for coating the chicken. I just can’t resist pairing it with rice; it’s great for soaking up all that deliciousness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for a lean meal. If you prefer dark meat, feel free to use boneless thighs instead. They’ll add more juiciness!
Whiskey: Any whiskey you enjoy drinking will work. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, try using apple cider or a non-alcoholic whiskey substitute for a similar flavor.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice brings a bright taste, but you can use canned juice if that’s what you have. If you’re watching sugar, try a no-sugar-added version for a healthier twist.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a great choice if you want to cut down on salt. You could also use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a sweeter profile.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness and depth. For a healthier choice, use honey or maple syrup, but remember to adjust the amount as these are sweeter than brown sugar!
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can sometimes be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can achieve perfectly grilled chicken every time. The key is to ensure the chicken is well marinated and not overcooked.
- Marinate your chicken for at least an hour, but letting it sit overnight gives it the best flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; this creates a nice char without burning the outside.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
How to Make Whiskey Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup whiskey
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Grilling:
- Pineapple slices (for grilling, optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook. Plus, if you have time, letting the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor) is ideal! So all together, you can plan for at least 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the whiskey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This yummy mix is what will give your chicken great flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator. For best results, go for at least 1 hour—overnight is even better!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftovers. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you want to add some tropical flair, you can grill pineapple slices alongside the chicken for a few minutes!
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy. Then, slice the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve with those delicious grilled pineapple slices if you decided to use them. Enjoy your yummy Whiskey Pineapple Chicken!
Can I Substitute the Whiskey in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use whiskey, you can substitute it with apple juice or an equal amount of chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option. Just note that this will change the flavor profile slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
Marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, but for the best results, marinate it overnight. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes will still add some flavor, just not as much.
What Should I Do If My Chicken Breasts Are Very Thick?
If your chicken breasts are thick, consider slicing them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This will help them cook more evenly and quickly on the grill. Alternatively, you can pound them to an even thickness with a meat mallet!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Whiskey Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of pineapple juice or broth to keep it moist.
